Is It Safe To Install Aluminum Wire?

I have heard people say bad things aluminum wire, is it safe to use? Safe Practices When Installing Aluminum Electrical Wiring.

Aluminum WireElectrical Wiring Question: I have a few questions concerning moving my service and increasing the load center size.
The service will come into the garage where the main load center will be. From there a 100 to 125 amp sub-panel in the house will be fed. There will also be a 100amp sub-panel in the shop fed from the main load center. From the main load center I want to have circuits for the garage, pool equipment, and a sump pump. The existing service is pretty piece-milled together and currently overhead; it will be changed to underground.
What size and type wire do I need coming into the meter for a 200amp load center?
Also, what size non-metallic conduit do I need? If I need more than a 200amp main panel, could I have a 200amp and say a 100amp side-by-side coming off one meter can?

Installing Copper verses Aluminum Electrical Wire

Copper Wire is my first choice, however I do install Aluminum Wire as well.

Safe Practices When Installing Aluminum Electrical Wiring
Aluminum wire is safe when the materials and methods of installation are correct as described in this list:

The wire gauge of aluminum wire must be sized sized correctly.

The insulation type must be approved for the application.

Aluminum wire must be installed properly.

Aluminum wire must be for approved or permitted for the project or applications.

Corrosion inhibitor must be applied when making connections.

Interesting Note:
Most all high voltage electrical utility services are aluminum wire or an aluminum alloy wire because it would be cost prohibited to install copper.

Applications Where Aluminum Wire Is Not Allowed

Please note that there are some restrictions that prohibit the use of aluminum wire.
For example: mobile homes, air conditioners and in some locations or other applications.
Check with your local building department or jurisdiction.

Sub-Panel Electrical Wiring for the Home

Electrical sub-panel wiring considerations for the home complete with pictures. Careful planning for your Sub-Panel with immediate and future load considerations will help you understand how to size your Sub-Panel. This information will help as you consider a Sub-Panel and its size.

Garage Electrical Wiring

Understanding Digital Volt Meters

When working on home electrical wiring using voltage meter can play an important part in electrical safety. Electrical testers and voltage meters enable you to identify electrical circuits and help prevent the possibility of accidental electrical shock.

Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.

Electrical Tip

The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wiring!

The Non-Contact Electrical Tester
This is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester, [amazon.com], I use for the detection of Standard Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.